North Berwick GC gets sustainability recognition

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North Berwick Golf Club in Scotland has been awarded golf’s global eco-label, GEO certified, in recognition of its commitment to nature protection, resource efficiency and community value.

“We are stewards of the land,” explained Stuart Greenwood, course manager. “We are lucky enough to look after this beautiful area, and we have a duty to do so in a way which protects it not only for now but for the future as well.

“We are very proud of becoming GEO certified and being counted amongst the leading clubs in sustainable golf. It is a credible and coveted recognition of the importance that we all at the club put into to maximise the positive impacts of our work on a daily basis.”

Some of the club’s achievements highlighted in the independent verifier’s report include the course’s role as an important buffer between designated natural areas, including a SSSI site, and the town of North Berwick; its close working relationship with environmental body SNH and the STRI; a highly efficient use of irrigation water using state of the art Toro sprinkler system; and its relationship with the local community, sourcing much of its clubhouse goods from local suppliers, working with local schools and running a popular caddy programing giving local youth work experience.

The club’s new community fund was a particular highlight of the certification report. “We have many visitors from across the globe that play on our course here in North Berwick, and they are all welcomed by the fantastic local community that surrounds us. It’s always one of the highlights of their visit,” said Chris Spencer, managing secretary at the club. “This year we introduced the community fund as a way to thank and support the important groups and charities that make North Berwick such a special place to live, work and visit.”

The fund saw grants of up to £2,000 each being awarded to a dozen organisations and individuals based in the local area. A total of £10,000 was allocated in 2016, and following a hugely successful first year the fund is due to re-open again in July 2017.

Jonathan Smith, chief executive of GEO and editorial adviser to Greenkeeping magazine, said: “The North Berwick Golf Club is an exceptional example of the social and environmental value that clubs can bring. By managing land in a responsible manner and supporting the local community the club has shown true commitment and exhibited their position as a leader in sustainable golf. We are proud to share the same community and call it home and congratulate Stuart, Chris and the team on their achievement. We look forward to seeing what the future holds for them and our North Berwick community.”